I have been working hard to spend quality time with every member of my family.
This was easier when I was a stay at home mom. I had much more free time to devote to taking care of everyone. Now that I'm teaching full time it is trickier. I have to be very intentional to notice what is important to each person in my family and then make it a priority to make them feel loved and special when we are together. That means doing things when I'm tired. Making after work to do lists and packing my weekend with quality time opportunities. Not getting as much sleep as I should and asking for help when I need it.
1. Bedtime chats and snuggles
2. Stocking the pantry with their favorite foods
3. Quality time together running errands - sometimes my errands and sometimes theirs
4. Errands to pick up favorite treats
5. Snuggles while we watch their favorite show
6. Having mom nearby
7. Fixing their favorite meals
8. Date nights
9. Keeping up with laundry so they have all the clothing options
10. Reading a book together
11. Paying attention to the Amazon links they send me and their shopping needs
12. Keeping close tabs on their school calendars to make sure we don't miss anything
13. Helping organize their bedrooms
14. Picking out their clothes for the week so that there is no thought required each morning
15. Helping out in my classroom
16. Strolling around the mall
17. One on one time with me
18. Bike rides
19. Cooking together
20. Saying YES to spontaneous requests - sleep overs, play dates, outings and plans.
It has been a fun challenge to figure out what each person in my family loves and needs in this season of having two busy working parents and kids ages 11, 8 and 4. I challenge you to do the same!
First world problems. A good part of the world has people who can't find water, food and shelter. Not to mention people in war zones of Ukraine, Gaza, Lebanon and Sudan who are seeing their kids either starved to death or blown to pieces by American supplied weapons.
ReplyDeleteWhitney isn't diminishing those world problems. She is just focusing on what she can do to build up and support her family-- that's a beautiful thing. When mothers pour into their families, it can change the world.
DeleteWhitney, you are such a wonderful wife, mother, teacher and a friend to so many. I am 71 years old and find your blog a source of encouragement. Our families are a gift from God and I find it refreshing to read about the ways you serve yours and take care of them. Laura is so right when she says mothers can change the world. Especially those who spend time in prayer. You make the world a better place. Keep up the good work! I look forward to reading your blog!
DeleteAll of those are great ideas whether you are a stay at home mom or working mom. Either way you are a great mom and your kids will remember how much you loved and cared for them. ❤️
ReplyDeleteAll great ideas!!
ReplyDeleteI love this. It is challenging to give that one-on-one time to each of your kids and your husband. Great inspirations for me to reflect on specific ways to make my family members feel seen, known, and loved!
ReplyDelete